Pitcher Yang Chang-seop of the Samsung Lions has been selected to participate in the 2026 KBO All-Star Game, marking his first career selection. He will replace Jang Chan-hee, who was initially chosen but is unable to play due to injury.
Yang Chang-seop’s Stellar Season Earns All-Star Nod
The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) announced on July 4th that Yang Chang-seop would take the place of Jang Chan-hee on the Dream All-Stars roster for the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO All-Star Game. Jang Chan-hee, a Samsung Lions teammate, had to withdraw from the event due to an elbow injury.
Jang Chan-hee was originally selected as a recommendation by the team’s manager. He was removed from the first-team roster on July 1st ahead of the game against the NC Dinos due to discomfort in the joint near his right elbow. Samsung manager Park Jin-man stated that the injury was not severe, estimating a recovery period of about ten days. He explained that Jang had been pitching continuously and needed a short break, with plans to utilize him again in the second half of the season without overexerting him.
Yang Chang-seop has stepped up to fill the void left by Jang Chan-hee. This marks his inaugural appearance in an All-Star Game since his professional debut. This season, Yang has been a dependable anchor for the Samsung Lions’ pitching rotation, appearing in 13 games and posting an undefeated 6-0 record with a 4.37 ERA.
‘Sunday Man’ Earns Coveted Recognition
Yang Chang-seop has shown particular strength in Sunday games, recording 4 wins and a 3.72 ERA in those starts, earning him the nickname ‘Sunday Man.’ His consistent performance as a key starter has led to this significant career achievement: his first All-Star selection.
Manager Park Jin-man commented on Yang Chang-seop’s development, noting, “His command has improved, giving him confidence in his pitches. For a pitcher, confidence in their own ball makes a big difference.” He emphasized that Yang’s style of inducing ground balls, rather than relying solely on strikeouts, is crucial for his continued success.
Having a career-best season under the trust of his manager, Yang Chang-seop is poised to create another special memory on the All-Star stage.
